The sports world was shocked when North Carolina fired Mack Brown, even though he was eager to continue teaching a day before. This unexpected move has quickly become one of the most talked-about decisions in the 2024 coaching carousel.
North Carolina fired head coach Mack Brown after six seasons, ending his Hall of Fame career. This came after tough losses, including a 70-50 defeat to James Madison and a narrow loss to Duke. Brown will still coach the final regular season game against NC State, but it’s unclear if he’ll lead a potential bowl game.
Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham stated, “Mack Brown has won more games than any football coach in UNC history, and we deeply appreciate all that he has done for Carolina football and our University. “
Referring to Brown’s accomplishments at the college, he said, “He has coached our team to six bowl berths, including an Orange Bowl, while mentoring 18 NFL draft picks…… We thank Coach Brown for his dedication to Carolina, and wish him, Sally and their family all the best.”
North Carolina has fired Head Coach Mack Brown, per @mzenitz pic.twitter.com/kczkNP4ovI
— PFF College (@PFF_College) November 26, 2024
After the announcement, Mack Brown shared his disappointment, as he had hoped to continue coaching next season. He said, “While this was not the perfect time and way in which I imagined going out, no time will ever be the perfect time.”
After reflecting on his time as coach, he added that his main focus now is to help the team prepare for the final game against NC State and give them the best chance to win.
Mack Brown’s dismissal opens 30-Day transfer portal window for players
After Mack Brown’s firing at North Carolina, a 30-day transfer portal window opened for players to explore their options. The portal officially opens on December 9.
However, NCAA rules allow players, including DB Kaleb Cost & RB Davion Gause, to enter it immediately following a coaching change.
After the firing of Coach Mack Brown, sources tell me a few @UNCFootball players are planning to hit the transfer portal including DB Kaleb Cost & RB Davion Gause🚨 pic.twitter.com/Zjc78LOBBl
— College Transfer Portal (@CollegeFBPortal) November 26, 2024
This gives Tar Heels players extra time to make decisions about their future. Now, North Carolina is concentrating on finding a new coach to help stabilize the team and retain key players.
